German label Closed has partnered with Hirofumi Kurino’s storied UNITED ARROWS label for a capsule collection of Italian-crafted chinos.
In the first partnership between the two labels, the capsule sees the menswear staple given a generous fit, utilizing Japanese twill and worked in three color choices of indigo, a dusty olive brown, and a lighter tan. Famed for their mature approach to menswear, UNITED ARROWS’ method combined with Closed’s distinctively German approach to tailoring: one that’s defined by restrained, clean and simple lines. The result is a capsule collection that strikes the right balance between classic and timeless menswear while still being wholly grounded in current looks.
In fact, changing trends is something the UNITED ARROWS’ co-founder and creative advisor hints at in exclusive interview given to Closed for the collaboration. Speaking to the family-run Hamburg-based label, he describes the current era of fashion and lifestyle as one defined by "neo-standards," in which people need reliable and sincere products.
The Closed x UNITED ARROWS capsule collection is available online and at the following Closed stores: Bikini Berlin, Dusseldorf men store, Amsterdam Wolvenstraat, Munich men store and Hamburg Bergstraße.
Read an extract from Closed’s exclusive interview with Hirofumi Kurino, below, before heading to Closed to shop the collection.
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Closed: Three characteristics that describe you best... Hirofumi Kurino: Music lover. Man of curiosity. Positive thinker.
C: United Arrows stands for…? HK: The people who think of “clothes” as a serious expression of themselves. We try to make this world much better and happier by providing meaningful products.
C: Why Closed? HK: Closed and United Arrows have the same positive vibration and seriousness to be a human-oriented company. And Closed makes cool pants!
C: What makes this capsule collection unique? HK: The high-level production skill and the rich archive from Closed, together with the sincerity of Japanese fabric and the smart United Arrows’ taste – that makes a good chemistry.
C: The inspiration? HK: We’re now in the "neo standard era" of fashion and lifestyle, so customers need good, simple and reliable (fashion) products.
C: Why chinos? HK: Because of the ‘question number 5’ situation: Chino trousers are one of the ideal and symbolic items for neo-standard.
C: How to wear chinos? HK: Don’t wear it too casual, wear it smart. Like… wear it together with a light jacket, good leather shoes, etc… Don't wear chinos as ‘Friday Casual’ or a ‘Father’s Day Outfit’.
C: Derbys, boots or sneakers to go with? HK: Yes, wear it with derbys, loafers and desert boots.
C: Any rules for socks? HK: Similar color to chinos or similar color to shoes. This tip makes your legs look longer!
C: Your style in three words: HK: A 'mix' of 'tradition' and 'design'.
C: What is it that drives you in life? HK: Live happily to make other people happy.
C: Please complete: "A day without a smile..." HK: ...is a day wasted.
